Being accused of a Title IX violation can be one of the most stressful and life-altering experiences a student may face while enrolled in college or university. The consequences are serious, and at Allen Harris, we understand how overwhelming it is to face these complex proceedings. That’s why we are committed to defending students across Texas who find themselves at the center of Title IX investigations and hearings. If you need a seasoned Texas student defense lawyer in your corner, look no further than Allen Harris. Contact us today.
Our Legal Services
Our firm is solely focused on defending individuals accused under school disciplinary systems and Title IX processes. We represent students facing a wide range of disciplinary issues, including those involving:
- Free Speech and Academic Freedom
- Sexual Misconduct
- Title IX Violations
- Student Misconduct
- Discrimination Claims
- College Housing Policy Violations
Students We Serve
Allen Harris defends students attending both public and private institutions across Texas. We proudly handle cases at many of the state’s most well-known schools, including:
- The University of Texas at Austin
- Texas A&M University
- Texas Tech University
- Southern Methodist University (SMU)
- Baylor University
- University of Houston
- Texas State University
- Rice University
- University of North Texas
- Texas Christian University (TCU)
Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate student, student-athlete, or part of a Greek organization, we understand the unique pressures you face and the potential implications a Title IX allegation can have on scholarships, athletics eligibility, and your academic record.
Due Process Rights for Texas Students Accused Under Title IX
Although Title IX is a federal law, every student of a public college or university in Texas has constitutional due process rights when facing accusations. These rights include:
- The right to be notified of the specific allegations and evidence
- The right to access the investigative file and respond
- The right to have an advisor or attorney present
- The right to question witnesses in live hearings (at public institutions)
- The right to appeal certain findings or sanctions
At private universities, these due process rights are more limited because constitutional protections apply primarily to state actors. However, even private institutions are bound by Title IX regulations and their own published disciplinary procedures. If a school deviates from its stated policies, fails to provide a fundamentally fair process, or shows bias, it may be possible to challenge the outcome through internal appeals, OCR complaints, or even civil litigation.
One of the most common mistakes students make is assuming that a school’s Title IX process is fair or informal. In reality, these proceedings are often adversarial and guided by institutional risk management, not justice. Having a knowledgeable attorney ensures that you do not walk into an investigative meeting or hearing unprepared or unaware of your rights.
Title IX at Public vs. Private Texas Universities
Understanding how Title IX functions differently at public versus private institutions is vital for students accused of misconduct. Public schools — like the University of Texas or Texas A&M — are government entities and must provide students with constitutional due process. This includes meaningful opportunities to respond to allegations and participate in a fair disciplinary process.
Private universities, while not subject to the same constitutional standards, must still adhere to Title IX regulations and their own codes of conduct. If a private school violates its procedures or acts with bias, it can be held accountable in other ways, including breach of contract claims or Title IX-based litigation. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights may investigate and sanction institutions that violate students’ rights.
Building a Strong Title IX Defense
Every Title IX case is unique, but the core of any strong defense begins with early involvement and preparation. From the moment you receive notice of a complaint, the steps you take can significantly influence the outcome of the case.
We start by helping you understand the allegations and your school’s Title IX procedures. We then assist you in gathering evidence, identifying favorable witnesses, and preparing you for any interviews or hearings. We can communicate directly with Title IX coordinators, challenge improper procedures, and ensure that your rights are preserved throughout the process.
A successful defense often depends on the ability to scrutinize the details: timelines, texts, social media messages, prior communications, and inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements. These factors are frequently overlooked by school investigators but can be crucial in establishing your version of events.
We also provide comprehensive post-hearing support. If you are found responsible, we evaluate all available options for appeal, reconsideration, or legal challenge. We are not just present for one hearing–we are with you through the entire process, fighting for the best possible outcome.
Contact a Student Defense Lawyer in Texas
If you or your child is facing a Title IX allegation at a Texas college or university, contact Allen Harris today. We offer confidential consultations, and you can depend on a skilled Texas student defense lawyer from our firm to help you navigate the process, protect your rights, and safeguard your future.